Rules · 5 min read · Updated 2026-11-04

Campervan hire age and licence requirements

Before planning a backpacker campervan trip, check that every person who may drive meets the rental provider’s current requirements. Age, driving experience, licence type and vehicle class can all affect a booking.

Young travellers with a campervan in Australia

In this guide

  1. 01 Check the age rules for your vehicle
  2. 02 Check each driver’s licence
  3. 03 Include every intended driver in the conversation
  4. 04 Make a practical booking check

Check the age rules for your vehicle

Wicked Campers Australia’s published vehicle rental agreement states that authorised drivers must be at least 18 for 2WD vehicles, with an under-21 surcharge, and at least 21 for 4WD vehicles. It also states a maximum driver age of 75 and at least 12 months of driving experience. Conditions can change, so read the agreement applicable to your booking.

If a driver is under 21 or close to an age boundary during the hire, contact Wicked Campers before booking to confirm eligibility for the vehicle and dates. The search on this site is configured for drivers aged 21 and over; it does not establish eligibility for younger drivers.

Check each driver’s licence

The agreement sets requirements for all authorised drivers, including a valid licence appropriate for the vehicle. For a licence not issued in English, it specifies an International Driving Permit or approved English translation. Carry the original licence and ask Wicked Campers what documentation you need before travel.

Wicked’s published FAQ and rental agreement describe provisional licences differently. If any driver has a provisional, probationary or otherwise restricted licence, ask Wicked Campers to confirm eligibility and any surcharge in writing for the proposed booking.

Young travellers with a campervan in Australia

Include every intended driver in the conversation

Tell the provider about everyone who may drive, their ages, licence types and driving experience. Confirm how to add authorised drivers and what charges or conditions apply. Do not let a person drive until the provider has confirmed they are authorised under the agreement.

Read the damage cover exclusions and responsibilities as well as the quoted price. A cheaper-looking quote is not useful if it does not cover the drivers or vehicle you intend to use.

Make a practical booking check

Choose a vehicle that fits your group and intended roads, then check availability for your dates. Ask about the age and licence requirements, relevant charges, permitted routes and documents needed at pickup. Save the answers with your booking confirmation.

Use our vehicle list to compare options, and see the trip budget guide for costs beyond the rental quote. The booking search continues to Wicked Campers, where the current quote and terms apply.

Ready to price it

Check live availability for your dates

Rates move with season, class and pickup city. The booking engine shows the real price for the dates you actually want.

FAQ

Questions about this

Can an 18-year-old hire a Wicked Campers vehicle?

The published Australian rental agreement sets a minimum of 18 for authorised drivers of 2WD vehicles, with an under-21 surcharge and other conditions. Confirm eligibility and the applicable agreement with Wicked Campers before booking.

What age is required for a 4WD?

Wicked Campers’ published Australian rental agreement states a minimum age of 21 for authorised drivers of 4WD vehicles. Other licence and experience requirements also apply.

Can I drive with a provisional licence?

The published FAQ and rental agreement describe provisional licences differently. Ask Wicked Campers to confirm your particular licence, eligibility and any surcharge before booking.

Find a camper for your trip

For drivers aged 21 and over. Continue to Wicked Campers for availability and prices.